Strengths: Experienced – has
five seasons of pro ball under his belt. Fairly athletic and quick in
the post. Can score with either hand. Has a good left handed hook
shot. Decent rebounder. Big wingspan – listed as between 7’3” and
7’5”. Very strong – good NBA body.

Weaknesses: Short for the NBA
– plays center in France, but is listed as just 6’9”. France league is
good, but the NBA is a big step up. Has played for France
internationally but hasn’t cracked the National Team roster. Not a real
big scorer – only averages around 10 a game in France. Doesn’t play a
lot of minutes – only about 20 a contest.

Projected 2007 Draft
Range: Mid
second round pick – undrafted.

Consensus: Traore looks to
be a bit of a long shot to make it to the NBA. However, he has a strong
body and long wingspan that will impress scouts.

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About Jeff Fox

ColumnistNBA Draft & International Hoops

Contactfoxyjj@sympatico.ca

Background

Jeff Fox is a freelance journalist based an hour outside of Toronto, Canada. While attending University of Waterloo (Canada) earning a B.A. in Economics and Management Studies, Jeff managed to walk onto the school’s varsity basketball team, the Warriors, for 2 seasons. His final year riding the pine for the Warriors saw the team make it to the CIS (Canada’s NCAA equivalent) Final 8 tournament. In addition to this site, he is a regular contributor to SLAM magzine (& online) and The Hoops Manifesto. When he isn’t planted in front of his computer he spends the rest of his time with his wife, Lisa, his son, Adam and his dog Jeannie.